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Results from a nationwide public opinion poll indicate Chambers of Commerce are vital to the prosperity of their communities. The newly released Harris Poll reveals strong support for Chambers of Commerce, finding 81% of U.S. adults agree that their local chamber of commerce is a trusted resource and partner for businesses.
The survey was conducted for the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives and found that 90% of adults believe their local chamber positively impacts economic growth, while 88% see chambers as effective in addressing community challenges.
“The poll’s findings assert the crucial role chambers of commerce play for businesses and communities,” said Sheree Anne Kelly, ACCE president and CEO. “Chambers are trusted and innovative organizations. As a result, we are seeing tremendous momentum to bring even more bold leadership and lasting impact on the communities we serve.”
Other key findings of the poll include:
• Chamber Membership Strengthens Business Reputation: 64% of adults who are familiar with their local chamber are more likely to purchase goods and services from a business that they know is a member of their local chamber. 63% of these adults are more likely to recommend that business to someone else.
• Chambers Serve Businesses and Communities: 76% of U.S. adults agree that local chambers are stewards of a strong local economy. 74% believe local chambers create jobs and promote local community development. 72% believe local chambers play a key role in addressing community challenges.
• Business Owners See the Value: 65% of business owners see their local chamber as an advocate for initiatives and policies that are in the best interest of their business. 62% believe the chamber supports the growth and prosperity of their business.
• People Want to Learn More About Their Local Chamber: 70% of U.S. adults wished they knew more about the work their local chamber does in the community. Specifically, they are most commonly interested in learning more about the type of impact local chambers have in their community (49%), more general information about chambers of commerce (43%) and which local businesses are members (42%).
Page Michel, San Marcos Area Chamber of Commerce president and CEO, emphasized the survey’s significance, stating that chambers are “vital engines for growth and connection.”
“We encourage everyone to search for area businesses from the Chamber’s membership list because those businesses are committed to serving and investing in the local community,” she said.
Search for Chamber member businesses online at SanMarcosTexas. com.
This new Harris Poll underscores the chamber’s role in fostering economic development and community engagement across the United States. Additional insights can be found at acce.org/poll.
The Chamber provides advocacy and connections for businesses to THRIVE. The Chamber’s mission is to improve the economic prosperity and quality of life of its members through leadership, education and business advocacy. Formed in San Marcos in 1903, the Chamber’s vision is to be the leading membership organization that collaborates with stakeholders to develop an environment where businesses thrive, leadership is encouraged, students excel, housing is ample and attainable, all members are active and quality of life is a priority. More information is available at SanMarcosTexas. com.
